Return for retail

Bondholder intu Derby has released further information about the safety measures in place at its centre as it has re-opened more non-essential retail this week.

A task force of experts from across intu have created detailed and adaptable plans for each of its 14 shopping destinations, with common principles guiding every plan and full risk assessments aligned to every centre to make them Covid-secure locations.

intu Derby has adapted its existing footfall-monitoring technology so that its frontline teams can accurately monitor and manage the number of people in every centre at any time. It will manage queues outside the centre when capacity is reached and there will be a raft of other measures including one-way systems, floor stickers and queues outside stores to ensure visitors stay socially distanced once inside.

Enhanced hygiene regimes that were introduced at the start of the outbreak will continue, with more deep cleaning of key areas and touchpoints like escalators, toilets and keypads. These measures have remained in place as centres provide vital access to essential services like pharmacies, supermarkets and banks during the lockdown period. Hand sanitation stands will also remain at entrances and other locations throughout each centre for visitors to use during their visit.

Matthew Roberts, chief executive of intu, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming more visitors back to intu Derby and our other centres from 15 June in line with Government guidance. Our centres have and will always be at the heart of their local communities. intu supports around 3% of all retail jobs in the UK and our centres are home to some of the biggest and best brands, so we are doing everything we can to make them safe places to visit and work.

“We know we cannot do this alone and everyone who visits our centres whether for work or to shop will play their part in keeping themselves and each other safe by following the official guidelines, and the instructions and safety information provided by our teams.

“Whilst the experience for everyone that visits intu Derby will be different to normal, our teams will be on hand to deliver that warm welcome our centres have become known for.”

Among the stores reopening are Zara, River Island and H&M, Footlocker and WH Smith. More information on which stores are open can be found here, or on each brand’s website.